Cruise Tour Godafoss and Myvatn Lake and Baths Small Group

If you’re visiting Akureyri via cruise and looking to soak in some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in a single day, this small-group tour of Godafoss, Lake Mývatn, and the geothermal baths offers a compelling mix of breathtaking landscapes, geological wonders, and relaxation. With a host of positive reviews praising guides, the variety of stops, and the intimate vibe, it’s easy to see why this tour scores a perfect 5.0 out of 5.

What really makes this experience shine is the combination of personalized attention—thanks to the small group size—and the opportunity to visit natural spots that are both visually stunning and historically significant. The tour also offers flexibility with departure times to match your cruise schedule, which is a huge plus for busy travelers. That said, be prepared for a day packed with driving and sightseeing, which might not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace or longer bath time.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, photography, and learning about Iceland’s volcanic landscape without the crowds. If you want a well-organized, value-packed trip that hits the highlights and offers authentic moments, this is likely to be a hit. It’s especially recommended for cruise passengers wanting hassle-free logistics and a memorable day out.

Key Points

• Small group experience: With a maximum of 19 travelers, the tour feels personalized and allows more time at each stop.
• Diverse stops: From waterfalls to geothermal fields to lava formations, each location offers a unique aspect of Iceland’s geological story.
• Expert guides: Guides like Johanna and Joanna are praised for their energy, knowledge, and helpfulness, adding depth to the experience.
• Flexible scheduling: Multiple departure times cater to cruise schedules, ensuring it fits your day without rushing.
• Value for money: The tour costs around $212 per person, which includes transportation, guiding, and multiple stops—offering good value for a full day of exploration.
• Extra perks: Wi-Fi on board and hotel/port pickup make logistics easy, and the opportunity to relax at the Myvatn Nature Baths adds a luxurious touch.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of northern Iceland’s natural beauty in just about 7 to 8 hours. What really sets it apart is the quality of the guides—reviewers frequently comment on their enthusiasm, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile. For example, one reviewer raved about Johanna, describing her as “full of energy, informative, and safe,” making the entire day lively and engaging.

The itinerary is meticulously curated to maximize sightseeing while keeping travel times manageable. Visiting the Godafoss waterfall first gives you an early glimpse of Iceland’s raw power, often accompanied by a rainbow if luck is on your side. The guide is quick to point out the cultural significance of the waterfall—once called the “Waterfall of the Gods”—making it more than just a pretty scene.

Next, the Lake Mývatn area offers a landscape that looks as if it belongs on another planet. The pseudo craters at Skútustaðagígar are a highlight that visitors love for their rarity and formation process. Several reviewers mention how special it is to see these formations, which are found only in a handful of spots worldwide, including Iceland and even Mars.

Then, the Dimmuborgir lava formations add a touch of fantasy—imagine trolls and mythical creatures hiding among the twisted volcanic rocks. The site is also a favorite among Game of Thrones fans, though the real magic lies in how otherworldly the landscape feels.

A quick visit to Grjotagja Cave lets you peer into a geothermal hot spring with a striking blue hue, and adventurous visitors can even stand on the continental rift boundary between Europe and North America—that’s a photo op and a geological lesson rolled into one.

The Hverir geothermal area is a bubbling, smoking landscape where boiling mud pots and fumaroles create an otherworldly scene. It’s fascinating to watch the earth actively spewing and bubbling, making it one of the most photogenic spots on the tour.

Finally, the Myvatn Nature Baths provide a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploration. While the admission isn’t included in the tour price, reviewers consistently say it’s worth the extra for a soak in the geothermal waters—think of it as Iceland’s answer to a natural spa, minus the crowds.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Godafoss Waterfall

Starting near Akureyri, the drive to Godafoss is scenic, following Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord. This 35-minute stop offers panoramic views of the powerful cascade. Many reviewers remarked on the “great photography opportunities,” especially if you’re lucky enough to catch a rainbow—something our guide hinted at is common if the weather cooperates. The water’s roar and the spray in the air make it an immersive experience, and the guide’s insights into its historical role in Iceland’s conversion to Christianity add depth.

Lake Mývatn and Skútustaðagígar

Driving onward, you’re introduced to the unique pseudo craters of Skútustaðagígar. These formations are a geological curiosity, formed by lava flowing into wetlands and creating these crater-like structures. Our guide explained their rarity and how they’re comparable to formations in Hawaii and the Azores. Reviewers highlighted how special it was to see something that’s almost extraterrestrial, with one noting, “It felt like being on Mars.”

Dimmuborgir Lava Fields

Next, Dimmuborgir offers extraordinary lava formations that look like castles, caves, and trolls’ hideouts. It’s a place that sparks imagination, and many visitors comment on the opportunity for fun photos and stories. One reviewer said, “You may meet many trolls here,” capturing the playful spirit the site inspires.

Grjotagja Cave

A short drive takes you to Grjotagja Cave, famous for its blue geothermal river. Visitors can admire the liquid heat and perhaps snap a shot standing on the rift dividing two tectonic plates. The experience of being in a volcanic cave and seeing the active earth beneath your feet is genuinely memorable, with some reviewers calling it “magical” and “like stepping into a different world.”

Hverir Geothermal Area

The bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles at Hverir are sensory overload. The smell of sulfur, the sight of earth actively bubbling, and the sounds of escaping gas make this stop unforgettable. It’s a favorite among photographers for the dramatic landscape. Reviewers appreciate how close they get to the geothermal activity, making it feel like an “alien planet.”

Myvatn Nature Baths

The tour concludes with around 90 minutes at the baths. Here, you can relax in mineral-rich geothermal waters while soaking in views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the glowing reviews talk about how blissful the experience is after a full day of sightseeing. Many mention how the quiet, warm water is the perfect way to wind down.

Transportation and Group Size

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the comfortable mini bus, often described as “like-new” in terms of cleanliness and comfort. The small group size means you can beat the crowds and enjoy each location at your own pace, which reviewers say adds significantly to the experience.

The logistics are well-managed, with multiple departure times aligning with cruise schedules, and pickup at the Akureyri port makes it hassle-free. The tour’s full-guided approach ensures you get the contextual stories behind each site, enhancing the visual experience.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $212.44 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the number of stops, guided commentary, and transportation. The admission fee for the Myvatn Nature Baths is extra, around ISK7,400, but many reviewers felt it was worth the splurge for the relaxing soak and stunning views.

The price also includes Wi-Fi on the bus, making sharing your photos or staying connected easy. As several reviewers pointed out, the day’s itinerary is packed but not rushed, and the small-group format helps keep things intimate and flexible.

Real Traveler Insights

From enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that guides like Johanna and Joanna are a highlight. They’re praised for their energy, knowledge, and willingness to add little extras like extra photo stops. One reviewer mentioned how the guide even adjusted the itinerary when their bus experienced a mechanical issue, switching around the order of sites to ensure nothing was missed. That kind of attentiveness makes a difference when you’re on a tight schedule.

Many reviews highlight how this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s an engaging, educational day with opportunities for stunning photos, local stories, and genuine moments of awe. Several travelers emphasized how the small group means fewer crowds, more flexibility, and a more personal connection with the guide.

The Sum Up

This Godafoss and Myvatn Lake & Baths small group tour from Akureyri is a fantastic way to experience some of Iceland’s most striking landscapes without the hassle of self-driving or large bus crowds. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want a comprehensive, guided day that balances sightseeing, learning, and relaxing in geothermal waters.

The tour’s highlights—spectacular waterfalls, alien-like volcanic formations, geothermal activity, and the chance to unwind at the baths—are perfectly suited for travelers seeking authentic experiences with a touch of comfort and convenience. The emphasis on small groups and expert guides ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd but an engaged explorer.

While the day is quite full, the variety of sites, the high-quality guiding, and the value for money make this a compelling choice for those wanting to see Iceland’s natural wonders in a single, well-organized trip. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone just eager to snap incredible photos, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 7 to 8 hours, including all stops and travel time.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it is designed specifically for cruise visitors, with flexible departure times and port pickup/drop-off.

What is included in the price?
Transportation by comfortable mini bus, fully guided commentary, Wi-Fi on board, and pickup at the port are included.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included. You can bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time at the bath.

What about the Myvatn Nature Baths entry fee?
It costs around ISK7,400 per person to enter, and you should bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to relax there.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Travel is in a clean, almost-new mini bus, with small group sizes for a more intimate experience.

Can I take photos at each stop?
Absolutely. The guide often provides tips for capturing the best shots, especially at waterfalls and geothermal sites.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently praise guides for their energy, knowledge, and friendly attitude, making the day more engaging.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Most travelers report that most people can participate, but always consider the physical demands of walking and the weather conditions.

This tour offers a balanced, engaging, and visually stunning exploration of Iceland’s northern gems. Perfect for those who value authentic experiences and expert guidance, it promises a day full of natural wonders and memorable moments.